Ontario wildfire evacuees recall ashes 'landing from the sky' in harrowing escape
The fund says monetary gifts and new essentials are the fastest way to help nearly 350 evacuees, including children, in temporary shelter.
- Nearly 350 people from Whitesand First Nation and surrounding communities, including McKenzie Lake, fled to Thunder Bay as wildfires ravaged northern Ontario; evacuees left home within minutes, some arriving with only the clothes they were wearing.
- Survivors described "hot, cold ashes landing from the sky" as nearly 200 wildfires blazed across northern Ontario, with about 80 considered out of control; extreme fire conditions forced the rapid evacuations.
- Executive director Stephanie Paxton of Mikinakoos Children's Fund noted many families arrived with "literally the clothes on their backs," prompting the organization to provide essential supplies including clothing and food to evacuees in Thunder Bay.
- On Saturday, Federal Jobs and Families Minister Patty Hajdu confirmed Ottawa will cover evacuation expenses for affected First Nations communities, urging local leaders to contact their regional adviser for immediate financial resources.
- The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury is partnering with Odenaang Circle to collect donations for evacuees; residents can drop essential items at the local library, BWG Leisure Centre, and town administration offices to support families during recovery.
15 Articles
15 Articles
Ontario Wildfire Evacuees Recall Ashes ‘Landing From the Sky’ in Harrowing Escape
The smoke that blanketed Whitesand First Nation became thicker, darker and more acrid within hours. By Monday afternoon, debris started falling down from the pine trees. Panic began to grow in the remote Ontario community more than 250 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. That’s when Daniel Nodin realized it was time for everyone to pack up and flee for their lives. Although the blaze was still invisible, the retired firefighter knew this: Wildfir…
Orillia Matters
Ontario wildfire evacuees recall ashes 'landing from the sky' in harrowing escape
THUNDER BAY — The smoke that blanketed Whitesand First Nation became thicker, darker and more acrid within hours. By Monday afternoon, debris started falling down from the pine trees.
nwonewswatch.com
snnewswatch.com'Literally the clothes on their backs': Mikinakoos collects basic items for families fleeing wildfires
Working with local agencies, the Mikinakoos Children’s Fund is coordinating the distribution of hygiene products, baby supplies and other items to Indigenous families.
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